Final answer:
A star's life cycle begins as a protostar, becomes a main sequence star, and then transforms into a red giant or red supergiant. It then sheds its layers to become a white dwarf, or explodes into a neutron star or black hole.
Step-by-step explanation:
The life cycle of a star can be quite complex. It begins with a protostar, which forms from a swirling cloud of gas and dust. As the pressure increases, the temperature also rises up to the point where nuclear fusion can begin and the protostar transforms into a main sequence star. Here, it fuses hydrogen into helium and remains in this stage for most of its existence. Eventually, the star exhausts its fuel and expands into a red giant or transitions into a red supergiant if it’s more massive. It will then shed its outer layers and become a white dwarf or undergo supernova explosion to become a neutron star or black hole.
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